A collection of paintings from conflict-affected communities will be presented during “Bodymaps For Healing: Seeking Peace In Southern Thailand”, which will kick off today and run until Sept 17, on the Curved Wall, 4th floor of Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
Held by SEA Junction in collaboration with Duayjai Group and Cross-Cultural Foundation, the exhibition hopes to raise awareness about the importance of healing for all those who have suffered psychologically from violence and to foster participation among networks in order to develop a support system. On display are more than 20 body paintings produced during a therapeutic art programme initiated by Duayjai Group to help participants explore and embrace their emotional states, self-awareness, stress management and the restoration of self-esteem.
The group has researched the psychological and social impacts on victims of abuse and torture and their families and discovered that anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder made it impossible for them to reclaim their former lives and also affected their livelihoods.
The colourful artworks were previously exhibited at the Pattani Artspace and the University of Prince of Songkhla. The exhibition also aims to raise awareness about the importance of legal and institutional frameworks for implementing fundamental human rights principles such as torture prevention and prohibition to enable a fair and effective justice system.
It will be launched with a panel discussion at SEA Junction, also on the 4th floor, today from 5-6.30pm. The speakers include artist Gerda Liebmann, director of Duayjai Group Anchana Heemmina, MP Rangsiman Rome and victim representatives.
Source : https://www.bangkokpost.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/2641658/healing-through-art
